Velma Yola Thatch

Velma Yola Thatch, 87, Carthage, Mo., formerly of Nevada, died Friday, Feb. 13, 2004, at her residence in Carthage following an illness of several weeks. She was born Feb. 12, 1917, in Baldwin City, Kan., to Clarence O. Brooks and Maude Stewart Brooks. She was married Dec. 11, 1942, in Kansas City, Mo., to Joseph D. Thatch. He survives of the home.

Mrs. Thatch graduated from Louisburg High School, Louisburg, Kan. She lived most of her adult life in Missouri and worked with her husband Joe in a variety of businesses.

In addition to her husband Joseph, she is survived by four brothers, Byron Brooks, Lawrence, Kan., Harold Brooks, Pharr, Texas, Wayne Brooks, San Antonio, Texas, Paul Brooks, Colorado Springs, Colo.; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Merle.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 17, at the Covenant World Outreach Church in Carthage, Mo., with J.D. Rakestraw and J.P. Wilson officiating. Musicians were J.D. and Joy Rakestraw. Musical selections were "Some Golden Daybreak," "My Home Sweet Home" and "Sheltered in the Arms of God." Pallbearers were Tony Smith, Kirk Blount, Fred Zavala, Cliff Hayes, Don Meister and Norman Radde. Interment was in Rockville Cemetery, Drexel, Mo. Arrangements by Ferry Funeral Home.

The family suggests that memorials be made to the Covenant World Outreach Church, 2623 S. Chapel Road, Carthage, MO 64836 or in care of Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washington, Nevada, MO 64772.